What is speed drug? Speed drugs, often lumped together under the umbrella of stimulants, pose significant health and social risks. When you hear the term speed drug, you’re typically looking at substances like amphetamine sulfate, commonly referred to as speed. Speed is a stimulant that affects your central nervous system, temporarily boosting energy and alertness. However, according to a 2021 study published in The Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, the potency and composition of street speed can vary significantly, leading to heightened risks of side effects and addiction.
Recognizing the Signs of Speed Abuse
- Excessive energy
- Unexplained weight loss
- Emotional instability
- Hyperactivity and skin sores
A study in Substance Use & Misuse highlights that these signs are common indicators of stimulant misuse and can escalate into more severe health concerns if left unaddressed.
Risks of Using Speed Drugs
When you take speed, you may feel a surge of energy and focus. But as The American Journal of Psychiatry notes, the initial stimulation is often followed by exhaustion, mood swings, and potential addiction.If you continue to use speed drugs regularly, the health risks compound, impacting both your cardiovascular and neurological systems. Chronic use often leads to sustained high blood pressure and heart strain, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. The stimulatory effects push your heart rate and blood pressure beyond normal limits, causing long-term wear on your arteries and heart muscle. Dependency also escalates over time, with your body requiring more of the drug to achieve the same effect, leading to a heightened risk of addiction and severe withdrawal symptoms.
Long-Term Effects of Speed Drug Abuse
If you use speed for an extended period, the effects on your brain and body intensify. A recent study from Frontiers in Psychiatry found that chronic amphetamine use leads to cognitive deficits, memory loss, and emotional instability. Over time, speed may lead to heart complications, skin sores, and substantial weight loss, making early intervention crucial.
Physical Effects of Speed Drugs
Speed drugs initially cause a surge in energy, rapid heartbeat, and increased blood pressure. However, prolonged use can lead to serious physical effects like heart arrhythmias and even heart failure. Chronic use often results in extreme weight loss, “meth mouth” (dental decay), and skin sores.
Psychological Effects of Speed Drugs
Speed drugs initially induce euphoria, increased confidence, and sociability. However, long-term use often results in severe mental health issues like anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. As noted in Journal of Clinical Psychology, dependency can significantly impact one’s life, affecting relationships, employment, and overall well-being.
Are ADHD Drugs Speed?
Some ADHD medications contain stimulants similar to amphetamines, but their controlled formulation is monitored for safety. According to the Journal of Medical Ethics, ADHD medications such as Adderall help those with ADHD manage attention and behavior. It’s crucial to distinguish these therapeutic drugs from illicit speed drugs commonly found on the street.
Is Adderall a Speed Drug?
Adderall contains amphetamines, which are stimulants similar to those found in illicit speed. However, Adderall’s regulated use differentiates it from street speed. A report in Addictive Behaviors highlights the stark differences in intended use and safety between prescribed Adderall and illegal amphetamine drugs.
The Toll on Relationships and Life
If you’re dealing with speed addiction, it can strain relationships and lead to isolation. A 2023 study in Family Relations found that individuals who prioritize drug use often neglect personal relationships and responsibilities, resulting in financial and social isolation.
Detoxing from Speed Drugs
Detoxing from speed is challenging and can lead to symptoms like fatigue, depression, and cravings. The Journal of Clinical Psychology recommends medically supervised detox to manage symptoms effectively and provide necessary support for recovery.
Helping Teens and Young Adults
If you’re concerned about a young person using speed, seek professional support. Contact Still Detox at (561) 556-2677 for support and guidance.
